peer

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   look searchingly

   We peered into the back of the shop to see whether a salesman was around

2. 2
   verb

   To look with difficulty, or as if searching for something.

   […] I should be still / Plucking the grass, to know where sits the wind, / Peering in maps for ports, and piers, and roads;

3. 3
   verb

   To come in sight; to appear.

   And as the sun breaks through the darkest clouds, / So honour peereth in the meanest habit.

4. 4
   noun

   A look; a glance.

   Blessed are those organisers who provide one-and-all with a name tag, for then the participants will chat together. A quick peer at your neighbour's lapel is much the simplest way to become introduced […]

5. 5
   noun

   Somebody who is, or something that is, at a level or of a value equal (to that of something else).

   In song he never had his peer.

6. 6
   noun

   A noble with a title, i.e., a peerage, and in times past, with certain rights and privileges not enjoyed by commoners.

   a peer of the realm

7. 7
   noun

   A comrade; a companion; an associate.

   He all his Peeres in beautie did surpas,

8. 8
   verb

   To make equal in rank.

   Being now Peered with the Lord Chancellor, and the Earl of Essex.

Etymology

From Middle English per, pere, from Anglo-Norman peir, Old French per, from Latin pār. Doublet of pair and par.